Small dogs often get a bad reputation. People think they’re just cute—but are they smart too? Definitely. Many small dog breeds are actually some of the smartest around. With a little training (and maybe a treat or two), these tiny pups can learn commands faster than you’d expect.
If you live in a small home or want a dog that’s easy to handle, small trainable breeds are a great pick. They’re little in size but big in brains. These dogs are eager to learn and love making their humans happy.
Training a small dog also has its perks—less mess, fewer battles, and no wrestling with a huge dog just to teach it a new trick. They’re great for families, first-time dog owners, or anyone who wants a small, clever buddy.
1. Toy Poodle
Small body, big brain—the Toy Poodle is a great mix of smart, stylish, and super trainable. These little dogs stand under 10 inches and weigh 4 to 6 pounds. They’re great for families and can live happily in both big houses and tiny apartments.
Don’t be fooled by their neat curls or fancy looks. Toy Poodles are very smart. They love learning, enjoy training, and are always up for a new trick or task. They enjoy routines and respond well to praise and treats.
Toy Poodles are also hypoallergenic, so they’re a good pick for families with allergies. They’re loving and quick to bond with kids and other pets. Just don’t leave them alone too long—they might get bored and act out.
Fun Fact: The word “poodle” comes from the German word “pudel,” meaning “to splash in water.” So your fluffy pup is actually named after puddles!
2. Bichon Frise
With their fluffy coats, round eyes, and cheerful faces, Bichon Frises look like dogs from a fairy tale. These dogs are 9.5 to 11.5 inches tall and weigh 12 to 18 pounds. They look like walking cotton balls, but they’re very smart underneath all that fluff.
Bichons love to learn and are very trainable. Long ago, they even performed in circuses doing tricks! They respond best to kind training and lots of love. Treats and belly rubs work wonders with these pups.
They do great with families, kids, and other pets. Bichons are also hypoallergenic, so they’re perfect for allergy sufferers. Just know that their coat needs regular grooming to stay clean and soft.
Fun Fact: The name “Bichon Frise” means “curly lap dog” in French—and that’s exactly what they are: cuddly lap dogs that love to spread joy.
3. Papillon
Don’t let their tiny size fool you—Papillons are clever dogs with lots of energy and personality. Their name means “butterfly” in French, thanks to their wing-like ears. They stand 8 to 11 inches tall and weigh just 5 to 10 pounds.
Papillons are natural learners who love anything that keeps their minds busy. Tricks, puzzles, or agility games? They’re all in. These pups are great for first-time owners or anyone who wants a small but smart pet.
They’re sweet and social, getting along with other pets when raised well. But since they’re tiny, playtime with big dogs or young kids should be gentle and supervised.
Fun Fact: Marie Antoinette had a Papillon that stayed by her side until the very end—talk about loyalty.
4. Miniature Schnauzer
With their bold eyebrows and beards, Miniature Schnauzers look serious—but they’re actually fun, smart little dogs full of charm. They stand 12 to 14 inches tall and weigh 11 to 20 pounds. They love to learn and bring a lot of sass to training.
These dogs are smart and easy to train, especially if the sessions are fun and fair. They can be a bit strong-willed, so using kind, steady training works best.
Mini Schnauzers do well in obedience classes, tricks, and even digging games like Earthdog trials. They love your attention and will happily learn new tricks to impress you.
Fun Fact: That fancy beard? It once helped protect them while hunting rodents. Now it just makes them look like smart little professors.
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are sweet, elegant, and full of love. They stand 12 to 13 inches tall and weigh 13 to 18 pounds. Though they look like royalty, they’re gentle, friendly, and very easy to train.
Their long ears and soft eyes make them look like they came from a painting. But they’re more than pretty—they’re smart, loving, and enjoy making their people happy. They do great in obedience, agility, and therapy work.
They respond best to gentle training with treats and praise. They’re too sensitive for harsh methods, but with kindness, they’ll shine.
Fun Fact: Though they were once royal pets in Europe, Cavaliers now prefer cuddles on your couch over castles.
6. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers come dressed to impress, with their black-and-white coats that look like tuxedos. They’re known as “The American Gentleman” and are friendly, smart, and easy to live with.
These small dogs are 15 to 17 inches tall and weigh 12 to 25 pounds. They’re sturdy, playful, and love to be around people. Boston Terriers are easy to train because they’re eager to learn and love attention.
They’re also full of fun and energy, making training sessions exciting. These dogs love praise and turn learning into playtime.
Fun Fact: Boston Terriers were first bred in the U.S.—in Boston, of course. They’ve been winning hearts with their charm since the 1800s.
7. Maltese
Maltese dogs are little beauties with flowing white fur and sparkly eyes. They come from the island of Malta and have been beloved pets for centuries. Even ancient Greek and Roman writers mentioned them!
Some Maltese weigh only 2 to 4 pounds, but their minds are sharp. They’re fast learners and love to show off their skills—from sit to spin, and even little dances.
These pups love being near people and respond well to treats and praise. They make training easy and fun, especially when there’s applause involved.
Fun Fact: Ancient Greeks thought Maltese had healing powers and would place them next to sick people. Today, they cure stress with snuggles and cuteness.
Last Thought
Small dogs can be just as smart, loving, and trainable as their larger cousins—sometimes even more so. Whether you’re in a small space or simply want a clever companion, these small breeds prove that big intelligence can come in tiny, wagging packages. With the right training and lots of love, these pups can be loyal, fun, and brilliant additions to any home.
FAQs
Q1: Are small dogs harder to train than big dogs?
No, many small dogs are actually easier to train. They’re eager to please and love attention.
Q2: Which small dog breed is the smartest?
Toy Poodles are considered one of the smartest small dog breeds due to their high intelligence and quick learning.
Q3: Do small dogs need less exercise than large dogs?
Generally, yes. Small dogs need less space to run but still need daily play and walks to stay healthy.
Q4: Are small dogs good with kids?
Yes, many small breeds like the Cavalier and Bichon Frise are great with children if socialized properly.
Nancy is a dedicated finance blog writer who specializes in breaking down money topics into clear, relatable advice. With a strong interest in budgeting, investing, and financial wellness, she writes to help readers build confidence in their financial journey. Nancy believes that everyone can achieve financial freedom with the right guidance and tools.